“Jewelry Creators: Dynamic Duos and Generational Gems” is co-authored by jewelry historian Beth Bernstein and jewelry journalist Sonia Esther Soltani.
New York—Jewelry historian Beth Bernstein and jewelry journalist Sonia Esther Soltani have penned a new book celebrating the relationships at the core of the jewelry and gemstone industry.
“Jewelry Creators: Dynamic Duos and Generational Gems” dives into the world of those who work as a duo, from family members to close friends, and those who are part of a generational legacy.
The book is more than illustrations, with behind-the-scenes anecdotes, stories, and little-known secrets of the families and friends who make up the industry.
“Each profile offers a touching, uplifting, and thought-provoking glimpse into collaboration and shared vision of the brands in the book. When personal bonds meet creative purpose, something extraordinary happens,” said Soltani.
“These pages are filled with joy: the joy of finding a kindred spirit, of building on a family story, and of shaping tomorrow’s heirlooms.”
The book features 22 influential independent designers, established brands, and gem dealers whose work pushes the boundaries of art, function, and wearability, as well as reflects both heritage and contemporary vision.
Some of those featured have grown up surrounded by gemstones and gold, while others met through the world of jewelry or in different fields and have combined their passion for adornment into successful collections and businesses, it said.
Among them are Lalaounis, Selim Mouzannar, Monica Rich Kosann, Jade Trau, Sorellina, Sethi Couture, Single Stone, Lord Jewelry, Julius Klein, and Walters Faith.
“Jewelry Creators: Dynamic Duos and Generational Gems” is divided into two sections, “Dynamic Duos” and “Generational Gems.”
The “Dynamic Duo” section of the book focuses on teams of two, including Lionheart’s co-founders and siblings Joy and Sarah Haugaard.
Dynamic Duos includes siblings, parents and children, husbands and wives, and close friends.
These teams of two have forged a distinct style with personality and professional skills that complement each other.
In the book, they tell their tales through a lively conversational spirit and never-before-seen photos of their jewelry.
The “Generational Gems” section features those who have generational ties to the industry, like fifth-generation diamantaire Jade Trau who is the founder and designer of her namesake brand.
The Generational Gems section features those who have jewels in their genes.
Several of these designers, brands, and dealers still work together and have learned from their trailblazing ancestors, who have handed down their skills and experiences.
They have built their reputation and standing by staying relevant through their respect for family values and innovation, said the authors.
This section also showcases the designers who have garnered their love for precious metals and stones from their family and are now making a name for themselves.
Published by ACC Art Books, “Jewelry Creators: Dynamic Duos and Generational Gems” is 176 pages and retails for $60.
She has also contributed to several publications including Forbes, Jewelry Connoisseur, Rapaport, The Jewellery Editor, Accent Magazine, Elite Traveler, Four Seasons Magazine, and Departures.
Bernstein said, “My co-author, Sonia Esther Soltani and I have laughed, teared up, and generally been taken in by the heartfelt and honest stories we have heard during our journey to engage you in the narratives of the teams that have helped each other grow, flourish, learn, and create with love for the craft and for each other.
“This book invites you into the worlds of the talents features—their highs and lows, trepidations and triumphs, and the behind-the-scenes tales that are interwoven in their jewelry, and that will be handed down to the next generation.”
Soltani is a jewelry writer and editor.
She contributes to the Financial Times, Forbes, VO+, GemGuide, Retail Jeweller, and Rapaport.
Previously, she was the editor-in-chief of Rapaport for seven years and hosted the “Jewelry Connoisseur” podcast.
